DIGITAL ACCESS, ADOPTION & UTILIZATION

WRDC plays a unique and significant role through research and supporting Extension activities to bridge the digital divide.

Research Initiatives

A hand using a wireless mouse at a modern desk setup with a computer and keyboard.

The expansion of high-speed broadband internet and the digitalization of the economy offer essential opportunities for rural families to increase their financial well-being and create long-term financial stability. Adopting and using broadband infrastructure can provide individual and family-level benefits and improve community well-being. By empowering minorities and rural residents, we aim to help them utilize broadband technology to create an inclusive, fair, and sustainable economy. To that end, the WRDC researchers focus on key priorities. 

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  • Understanding factors that lead to successful economic growth related to broadband use.
  • Exploring the relationship between broadband access, entrepreneurship, and job growth in rural communities
  • Understanding of the institutional, social, cultural, and economic factors that affect rural and undeserved individuals’ decision-making and adoption of e-commerce and remote work
  • Evaluate obstacles and opportunities for rural and minority individuals’ e-commerce and remote work success both nationally and in rural communities

Extension Initiatives

two men looking at a tablet in a wheat field

The WRDC is dedicated to collaborating with Extension programs to ensure our western rural communities experience the benefits of digitalization. Extension initiatives are:  

  • Engaging in broadband internet expansion efforts 
  • Supporting digital skill development  
  • Increasing utilization of digital tools and resources
  • Convening coalitions

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Technology is advancing at rapid speeds, yet many people, businesses and communities are unable to fully participate in our increasingly digital society and economy. The importance of high-speed broadband internet access is becoming so instrumental that research and conversations are being held to consider it a social determinant of health, the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. 
 
As Extension professionals of the past supported residents with the adoption of rural electrification, today’s Extension professionals are helping individuals and communities gain digital skills, expand high-speed broadband connectivity, and confidently use technology to enhance education, agriculture, healthcare, and economic opportunities—ensuring no one is left behind in the modern world. 

Recognizing the impact digital connectivity and access to information has on the vitality of rural communities, WRDC convened a Digital Opportunities Working Group of Extension professionals across the West engaged in expanding individual and community digital resiliency.  The group meets throughout the year to share resources, information on funding and partnership opportunities, explore opportunities to collaborate on efforts and discuss the unique needs of the west. 
 
Collaborate with Extension professionals from the following institutions:  

  • Colorado State University Extension 
  • New Mexico State University Extension 
  • Oregon State University Extension 
  • University of California Extension 
  • University of Idaho Extension 
  • Utah State University Extension 
  • Washington State University Extension 

Workforce Development

Utah State University Extension Remote Online Initiative is retraining individuals for the modern workplace.  

Youth Development

Oregon State University Extension’s Victor Villegas uses drones, robots, AI, music, humor and more to reach under-served/under-represented youth and spark their interest in STEM education and career pathways.

Digital Skill Training

University of Idaho Extension Digital Economy Program places AmeriCorps members as digital navigators in rural and tribal communities to offer one-on-one technical assistance and digital skills workshops.

Broadband Expansion

University of California Extension works with communities on innovative strategies for increasing connectivity, highlighting community-owned internet service providers and examples of utilities co-ops branching to offer broadband to the communities they serve.   
 

Broadband Planning Support

Washington State University Extension provides technical, operational, and planning funding support to local Broadband Action Teams and Tribal efforts to realize the outcomes developed in their Broadband and Digital Adoption Action Plans.